The Raqqa Diaries began as a series of short broadcasts on Radio 4's Today Programme. Syria is currently one of the most isolated and fear ridden countries on earth - no-one is allowed to speak to western journalists or leave the city of Raqqa without IS's permission. Despite this, journalist Mike Thomson, with the help of BBC's Arabic Service, found someone who is willing to risk his life to tell the world what is happening in his city.

The author, Samer, is 24 years old. Having escaped from Raqqa, he is living in a refugee camp in northern Syria. Raw, direct and profoundly affecting, The Raqqa Diaries is his story - an important book by a brave young man, allowing us unprecedented access to the brutal conditions that many Syrians are living under.

In this exclusive event, Mike Thomson, BBC 4 Journalist and editor of The Raqqa Diaries, will be talking to Broadcaster John Humphrys about how he brought these stories to the world stage and why this should be compulsory reading for all who care about the horror of Syria, especially those who control its fate.

Tickets: £8 per ticket or £5 for Foyalty members. You must have your Foyalty card on you on the night to present at the door. Not a Foyalty member? Sign up for free here.Venue: The Auditorium at Foyles, Level 6, 107 Charing Cross Road

Please note, no physical tickets will be issued (to save the trees!). Your email confirmation is proof of booking.​

RefundsWe are unable to issue refunds to customers unable to attend the event without at least 24 hours' notice. To request a refund of your ticket purchase or purchases, email events@foyles.co.uk with your details and request.

Our knowledgeable and fabulous Languages Department have put together a great selection of books, to help share the magic of reading in every language. First up we have books in Italian, Portugese and Swedish.